For me, identifying Art Deco is akin to that bible-thumping Senator who was asked how he knew when something was pornographic: “Maybe you can’t define it, but you know it when you see it,” he said. Brizo’s new Charlotte Collection of lavatory faucets may not approach that degree of titillation (unless you really love your high-end bath fittings), but it does go a long ways towards incorporating an Art Deco look into a contemporary scheme.

Charlotte Lavatory Faucet. Manufactured by Brizo.

Brizo’s Charlotte Faucets Fuse Traditional and Modern

Characterized by “bold linear symmetry, lavish designs, and opulent style,” the new collection departs from the popular recti-linear look to embrace a curvaceous yet slimming aesthetic that reminds me of a sexy female silhouette. True to the era evoked by the link with Art Deco, the faucets project a sense of draped fabrics and dark wood—the kind of luxuriant interiors favored by the likes of Al Capone during the roaring 20s. At the least, as Hollywood would have us believe it, moneyed gangsters must have had excellent taste.

Perhaps the most pronounced link between traditional Art Deco and Charlotte is to be found in the extraordinary detailing on the handles. Each of the fittings in the Charlotte line—which includes widespread lavatory/vessel faucets, wallmount faucets, and faucets for shower and bath—incorporates this decorative flourish. Such ostentation was an Art Deco hallmark, as—very like Charlotte—the movement synthesized a variety of architectural styles and motifs into a singularly bold and distinctive aesthetic.

The Charlotte line is designed for easy integration with existing Brizo bath/shower components and accessories. These include water-saving showerheads; coordinating bidets, accessories, lighting and mirrors; and “TempAssure” thermostatic valves.

Come October 2011, Charlotte will be available in a variety of enticing finishes, including polished nickel, polished chrome, brushed nickel, and the decadent new Brizo cocoa bronze.

Via KbbOnline.

About the Manufacturer: Mies would have loved the design philosophy espoused by of fittings manufacturer Brizo, whose products lay claim as “proof positive that form and function are one and beautifully the same.” The flawless function and fabulous form of this premium brand that merges high fashion and high design is perhaps best exemplified by the Brizo Loki and Pascal faucets, selected by none other than fashion maven (and Brizo collaborator) Jason Wu to outfit his New York home.